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      Martin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba LIVE RESULTS: Fight ends in controversy after 10 brutal rounds as both fighters want rematch

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      MARTIN BAKOLE returned to the ring against Efe Ajagba in Saudi Arabia.After 10 brutal rounds, the fight went to the judges’ scorecards, and the bout was declared a majority draw.One judge scored it 96-94 in favour of Ajagba, while the two others both had it 95-95.After the fight, Bakole and Ajagba both stated that they thought they had done enough to win the clash and are open to a rematch.The pair met on the undercard of Canelo Alvarez vs William Skull as the Mexican defends his WBA, WBC and WBO super-middleweight titles in Saudi Arabia to set up a thrilling encounter with Terence Crawford. TV/Stream: DAZN PPVCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Alvarez vs Crawford set to headline boxingThat being said, Canelo did the job many expected and has granted the world of boxing what they’ve yearned for:The pair will dispute for the undisputed super-middleweight world champion. Copy linkCopiedAlvarez vs Crawford detailsSaul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez is now set to face Terence Crawford after beating William Scull in Saudi Arabia. Alvarez and Crawford will lock horns on September 12 at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.Crawford – a four-division and two-weight undisputed champion – will have to move up from light-middleweight for the fight with Canelo.Copy linkCopiedBoxing, what boxing? It hasn’t been the most penetrative weekend of boxing so far. In New York, Devin Haney’s unremarkable win was a reactive bout of nothing but timid sparring. Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull set the record for the fewest combined punches thrown in a 12-round fight with 445 for their dust-up in Riyadh. Copy linkCopiedMorning reading Includes confirmation of a blockbuster fight and return of a living legend: Copy linkCopiedBig hitter struggles to imposeThere is no doubting Martin Bakole can hurt an opponent with the power behind his punches.However, boxing has become far more tactical and he met someone this evening looking to turn off the danger he poses.If the two are to meet again, he will need to find some way to get inside more and let his hands go.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedNo more bad bloodSpeaking with DAZN after the fight, Martin Bakole was quizzed about all the bad blood in the lead up to the fight and whether it was still there.Bakole said this is just what happens in the build-up and declared him and Ajagba brothers as he walks over and embraces him.There is something poetic about two warring parts of Africa putting difference to one side and recognising that they are now brothers.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBattle of Africa………take twoYou have to wonder what a rematch offers either of these fighters.Aside from the winner maybe getting a shot against Usyk or Dubois.It is unlikely that Parker will want a rematch with Bakole there seems to be nothing in it for the Kiwi to beat him again.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBakole lucky to drawOver the course of the ten rounds, most scorecards had this down as a win for Efe Ajagba.The majority draw verdict seemed to come as a surprise but you wonder whether they scored Bakola more for wanting to just throw down and fight.While it shouldn’t work that way, Ajagba was looking to use the ring and happy not to get drawn into a slugging match.Despite that, he did land punches but we did not see much in the way of trading blows.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBoogeyman playing to the crowdAfter the fight, Martin Bakole has said he wants to fight in Riyadh again and thanks the Saudi prince for inviting him to the country.He said he thinks he did enough to win the fight and would be happy to have a rematch,Bakole then asks the crowd if they would like to see a rematch instead between him and Joseph Parker, to a big cheer.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedNot Efe happySpeaking with DAZN after the fight about the result:I won the fight to be honest. I won that fight. It is not up to me, the judges decide. He keep putting pressure, I had to keep going. Of course I want a rematch for sure, I want a rematch in the United States.Efe AjagbaCopy linkCopiedJudges decide on majority drawCopy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 10)Ajagba’s tactics seemed to have work tonight.Bakole just didn’t get inside and get big shots off often enough.By the time he started to try, Ajagba was so far ahead he could just utilise the ring and stay out of range.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 9)Both fighters start to let their hands go in this round.Bakole is landing some good shots that really rock Ajagba.He replies with some good combos which get through.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 8)Ajagba starts the round well and moves around and continues to frustrate Bakole, who tries goading him into the middle of the ring.Towards the end of the round, Bakole gets inside and starts landing big head shots that have Ajagba bloodied and drained.The bell comes at the right time for him to have a breather.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 7)Ajagba is looking to move around the ring more.He knows when he does that, Bakole cannot get a grip of the fight.Bakole occasionally manages to get inside and land some good punches but is also getting caught by counters.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 6)Bakole starts the round coming inside and getting punches off.The problem he is doing this too little and is well down on the card as a result.Not that it will bother Bakole, his plan was always to win this by stoppage and nothing has changed there.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 5)Much better round for Ajagba there.He started putting some distance between the pair and then coming inside and retreating.Ajagba catches Bakole with some real big hits and bosses the round.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 4)What a great round that was for Bakole.He started to drive forward and get inside and just start spraying big hits all over Ajagba.Towards the end of the round it looks like they are having their effect and it is grinding down Ajagba.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 3)Bakole is not getting inside to let his hands go.Ajagba is able to come over the top with big right hands and twice rocks his opponent.After that Parker loss you woder if Bakole can take these hits.Towards the end of the round Bakole gets inside and lands a good combination of hard hits with his opponent on the ropes and unable to get away.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 2)Bakole takes on his instructons from his corner.He starts to look to work Ajagba with body shots.Ajagba is looking to come over the top with counters.He needs to be wary that Bakole will be willing to lose rounds just to try and set up that big knockout punch.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 1)Ajagba looks to utilise the jab early.Bakole does not have much of a defence and they are able to get through to the head.It is Ajagba who seems to be on the front-foot more and comes inside and fires off a good combination of punches.He retreats and looks to work the body with jabs.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe AjagbaTwo big entrances from both fighters.Bakole is followed in by a hype man singing to get started.Ajagba is wearing a t-shirt saying ‘RIP George Foreman’ along with vary images of different points of the heavyweight’s career.Copy linkCopiedAjagba saying all the right thingsSpeaking to Sky Sports, Efe Ajagba seems to be expecting a victory here tonight and has started to think about next moves:I’m not overstepping. I’m just focused on Martin Bakole first. After that, when I get the victory, that’s when I’m going to step up to fight who I want to fight next. Whether it’s Usyk or Dubois.Efe AjagbaCopy linkCopiedEfe ready to cause an upsetFor Ajagba, this is a chance to finally validate his potential. After being heralded as a future titleholder early in his career, the Nigerian puncher suffered a setback in 2021, losing a clear decision to the slick Frank Sanchez. Since then, Ajagba has put together five straight wins, most recently edging Guido Vianello by split decision.Still, questions remain. Has Ajagba evolved since the Sanchez loss, or has he simply been matched wisely? Bakole, even in his recent defeat, may prove to be the acid test.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBakole looking to bounce backThe Congolese contender was stopped brutally in round two by Joseph Parker in February—a fight he took on just 48 hours’ notice. Despite the setback, Bakole retains his promoter’s confidence. He knew what defeat to Parker would mean to his career but he is hoping with an impressive victory tonight, he can wipe that fight from the boxing world’s memory.Copy linkCopied More

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      Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth LIVE RESULT: Cherries fight back as Gunners STUNNED before crucial PSG clash – updates

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      BOURNEMOUTH fought back from a goal down to stun Arsenal 2-1 at the Emirates.The Gunners preparations for the huge Champions League second leg against PSG on Wednesday were hit by an almighty blow after Evanilson and Dean Huijsen scored in quick succession.Mikel Arteta picked a strong team for the match with Thomas Partey returning after his suspension in the first leg against PSG last week.Kick off time: 5.30pm BSTTV channel/ live stream: Sky Sports Main Event and Premier LeagueArsenal starting line-up: Raya; White, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Odegaard; Saka, Martinelli, TrossardBournemouth starting line-up: Arrizabalaga; Araujo, Huijsen, Zabarnyi, Kerkez; Cook, Adams, Kluivert; Tavernier, Ouattara. EvanilsonCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Cooking Rice only bright spotThere wasn’t much for Arsenal fans to celebrate at the Emirates – but the performance of Declan Rice was a joy.On his 100th appearance for the club, his opener was his 15th goal for Gunners.It’s as many goals as he managed in 245 games for West Ham.Copy linkCopiedArteta: We must use our rageA furious Mikel Arteta insists his side must take all of their negative emotions and use them for good in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final.Speaking after his side gave up a one-goal lead to Bournemouth, the Arsenal boss pulled no punches.We didn’t create the right momentum. We certainly created a lot of anger, frustration, rage, disappointment. Now we have to use that for good on Wednesday. That is what we have to do.Mikel ArtetaSky SportsCopy linkCopiedMatch stats from the EmiratesArsenal have now dropped 21 points from winning positions in the Premier League this season – it is their joint-most ever in a single campaign (also 21 in 2019-20).Copy linkCopiedFull time – Arsenal 1-2 BournemouthAdvantage Cherries in the race for the Conference League!Bournemouth have won away at Arsenal for the first time in their history, completing an impressive double over the Champions League semi-finalists.The Gunners were hoisted by their own petard, losing to two set-pieces in second half, first when Dean Huijsen headed in from Antoine Semenyo’s long throw, and then when Evanilson bundled a corner in at the far post.Mikel Arteta has a lot of work to do to pick his players up for a huge night in Paris on Wednesday.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth90+4. There’s a lot of head shaking going on as Arsenal move nowhere in their latest attack.Bournemouth are cruising towards an important, historic win that will leave them with a real chance of European football – and it’s thoroughly deserved.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth90+2. A modicum of excitement engulfs the Emirates as a free-kick is awarded to Arsenal 25 yards from goal.It soon evaporates when Odegaardly meekly hits it into the wall.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth90. Six minutes of additional time are signalled but even those Arsenal fans who have remained in their seats aren’t enthused by the news.Just blow the whistle and let these poor people get home for Britain’s Got Talent.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth87. This has been a nothing performance from Arsenal.No wonder Declan Rice has his head in his hands on the bench.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth84. Don’t worry, Arsenal fans, the calvary are coming.Perhaps Raheem Sterling, Oleksandr Zinchenko and (the admittedly very good) Ethan Nwaneri can save the day. Yeah, I couldn’t type it with a straight face.Ben White, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are the ones to make way.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth82. If you were expecting Arsenal to respond in fighting fashion after falling behind, you were severely mistaken.If anything, Bournemouth look as though they could score again.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth79. This is the first time that Bournemouth have scored two goals from set pieces (excluding penalties) in a Premier League away game since January 2018.Arsenal are having a taste of their own medicine.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth75. Paris Saint-Germain will be shaking in their boots at this latest bout of pathetic defending.Alex Scott swings a corner over from the left for Marcus Tavernier to flick on across goal from the near post.At the back stick, Martin Odegaard is more concerned with wrestling Evanilson than dealing with the imminent danger of the football, and falls over as the Brazilian bundles beyond some equally shambolic goalkeeping from David Raya.There’s a VAR check for both handball and offside, but not wanting to upset the Cherries after last week’s mess, the officials decide that the footage is inconclusive in deciding whether Evanilson used his elbow to score.Bournemouth deservedly lead at the Emirates, and move into pole position in the race for the Conference League.Copy linkCopiedTurnaround!Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-1 Bournemouth74. Never make a substitution at a corner, right?Well, both Arsenal and Bournemouth have done just that.Admittedly, the one for the Cherries is forced with Dango Ouattara in some discomfort; he’s replaced by David Brooks.The hosts, though, have made the decision to swap Declan Rice with Mikel Merino while having a set-piece to defend.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-1 Bournemouth70. Mikel Arteta is yet to make a change, and now Bournemouth are the team on top.The equaliser has shook Arsenal, and they’re being dragged all over the place by Marcus Tavernier, Alex Scott and co.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-1 Bournemouth67. Bournemouth have their equaliser!In the end, it didn’t take much finesse or even football, just one long throw launched into the box by substitute Antoine Semenyo.Young defender Dean Huijsen rose to meet it, and none of the five Arsenal players in his vicinity bothered to join him.One cleverly steered header later and the ball is beyond David Raya, and the travelling fans behind that goal are going absolutely beserk.All square!Copy linkCopiedThere it is!Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth63. Andoni Iraola is preparing changes which is the perfect time for commentator Rob Hawthorne to remind us that Bournemouth have had 12 goals scored by substitutes this season.Only Fulham with 15 have scored more.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth61. “Bournemouth can smell an equaliser,” is Alan Smith’s latest worry.Mind you, he says it just as Kluivert turns and spoons one over from 25 yards.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth59. Evanilson is booked for a textbook foul that halts Arsenal’s progress in the middle of the pitch.No danger of a red card for the Brazilian on this occasion. Not even VAR can get this wrong.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth56. Saka is starting to influence the game a lot more now.Moving over to the left, he’s quick to skip inside Araujo and curl a shot towards the top corner. There’s not enough bend though, and it drifts agonisingly wide.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth54. “Arsenal need a second goal here,” worries Alan Smith.The big man’s got a point. This is a game that reeks of an 82nd minute equaliser from substitute Antoine Semenyo.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth52. Back down the other end, and Saka – unusually quiet tonight – has a shot blocked behind for a corner.Let’s hope the Arsenal forward is saving himself for the Parc des Princes.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth49. It didn’t take long for Kerkez to threaten again.The rampaging left-back pushes down the flank and whips in a teasing delivery that is just too far ahead of Tavernier.It’s a reminder of the threat Bournemouth carry.Copy linkCopiedKick-off – Arsenal 1-0 Bournemouth46. The action restarts at the Emirates, where Arsenal are in frnot. It’s a slender lead, but a lead nonetheless.The object for the Gunners in the second half is to see this game through without picking up any injuries while Paris awaits. Standing in their way, Bournemouth have very different ideas.Copy linkCopied More

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      Premier League LIVE SCORES: Leicester vs Southampton DELAYED, Everton leading Ipswich, Arsenal up NEXT – updates

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      SATURDAY’S Premier League action features four huge matches!The early kick off saw two teams with European ambitions, Aston Villa and Fulham, face off in the West Midlands, with Youri Tielemans scoring the only goal in a Villa win.Two 3pm fixtures see Everton welcome already-relegated Ipswich Town and Leicester City host Southampton in a basement clash.Saturday’s action concludes with Arsenal welcoming Bournemouth to the Emirates at 5.30pm.Kick off times: 12.30pm/3pm/5.30pmCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…From Phil Thomas at GoodisonA day of nostalgia and tradition in the penultimate game at Goodison……so how fitting that Everton are maintaining their time-served custom of being consistently inconsistent to the end.Two up and cruising against a relegated side which looked ready to crumble, only to blow it and having to settle for a point.Well I did say if a fourth goal was coming, Ipswich were favourites to get it…Copy linkCopiedFrom Dan King at the Emirates StadiumWhen it comes to injuries, you can have sympathy with Arsenal.This time they leave full back Jurrien Timber out as a precaution and in comes Ben White for only his third start since November.But in terms of the alleged refereeing plot against the Gunners, ask Bournemouth how they feel.They were set fair for a win over Manchester United that would have kept them right in the hunt for European football until Evanilson was sent off, a decision that was overturned on appeal Could it be that there was a cock-up instead of a conspiracy and that incompetence is dealt out at random?Mikel Arteta’s side were not quite on it when they drew with Brentford in between their quarter final clashes with Real Madrid.After Liverpool sealed the title, this is another test of Arsenal’s will not to come third in a two-horse race.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Leicester 2-0 SouthamptonThe Foxes come out on top in the battle of the bottom two and record a rare win.Southampton still have work to do to not be remembered as the joint-worst Premier League team of all time.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Everton 2-2 IpswichAn entertaining game comes to an end at Goodison.Copy linkCopiedEverton 2-2 Ipswich90. Six minutes of stoppage time has just been signalled at Goodison……and that has lifted Ipswich.Kieran McKenna’s relegated outfit believe they can win this!Copy linkCopiedFrom Graham Hill at the King PowerThings have calmed down after an incident-packed first half.If anything, Southampton have looked the most likely to score.They had a goal disallowed after 55 minutes when Matty Fernandes put the ball in the net, after sub Paul Onuachu’s header was saved superbly by Jacob Stolarczyk. But it was ruled out for offside.The travelling Saints fans let interim boss Simon Rusk know what they thought of his decision to sub Fernandes moments later.They sang ‘You don’t know what you’re doing’ and followed it up with a lengthy rendition of ‘Matty, Matty Fernandes’.Leicester have brought on 15-year-old Jeremy Monga – but can Vardy score again for his 200th Leicester goal?Copy linkCopiedEverton 2-2 Ipswich79. From 2-0 down, Ipswich have clawed their way level.It’s substitute George Hirst who has bagged the equaliser, following in his father’s footsteps with an instinctive header at the far post.The striker took advantage of some good fortune when a cross from the left looped up off Idrissa Gueye, but he was alert and showed bravery to dart in and head down past Jordan Pickford.They may be heading back to the Championship, but Ipswich have something to celebrate here.Copy linkCopiedEqualiser!Copy linkCopiedLeicester 2-0 Southampton71. And yet somehow this game makes the game at Goodison Park look action-packed.There’s just been one shot on target in the second half at the King Power, and I can’t even remember who had it.Copy linkCopiedEverton 2-1 Ipswich68. It has been 30 minutes since Everton last attempted a shot in this game.Dominic Calvert-Lewin is back on the bench today. Maybe it’s up to him to put that right.Copy linkCopiedFrom Phil Thomas at Goodison ParkOn easy street with half-time in sight… now scrapping like street fighters to keep their noses in front.At least Everton are consistent to the end – they’ve always been in a league of their own when it comes to making things hard for themselves.If there’s a fourth goal in this, you sense Ipswich will be the ones who score it.Copy linkCopiedEverton 2-1 Ipswich56. Ipswich scorer Julio Enciso picked up a knock at the start of the second period but he appears to have shaken it off.And now he’s eyeing up Jordan Pickford goal again with another long range effort, but this time the Everton keeper comes out on top to comfortably save.Copy linkCopiedTeam news from the EmiratesArsenal (4-3-3): Raya; White, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Trossard, MartinelliBournemouth (4-2-3-1): Kepa; Araujo, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez; Cook, Adams; Tavernier, Kluivert, Ouattara; EvanilsonCredit: @Arsenal on XCredit: @afcbournemouth on XCopy linkCopiedBack on it for the second halfWe are underway again at Goodison and the King Power, although the latter is a little behind following that first half stoppage.Can Southampton find a way back in? Will Everton start their farewells to Goodison in style? It’s time to find out.Copy linkCopiedFrom Graham Hill at the King PowerAfter 12 minutes of stoppage time here – and an eventful first half – Leicester are in uncharted territory as far as 2025 goes.Ruud van Nistelrooy called on his relegated team to play with freedom – and they have. The Foxes are 2-0 up at half time with goals from skipper Jamie Vardy and a 43rd minute strike from Jordan Ayew who saw his free-kick hit the Saints wall before scoring from the rebound.But ref David Webb went down injured midway through the half and had to come off. There was a delay of almost 12 minutes before play could resume – with fourth official Sam Barrott stepping up to take the whistle, and a referees’ coach Phil Sharp, taking over on the touchline.As if that wasn’t enough, a fans’ protest banner aimed at the owner, Top Srivaddhanaprabha and director of football Jon Rudkin, was mistakenly shown on the stadium’s big screen. Leicester use the broadcast feed for match action and swiftly took down the banner shot.But Southampton still look a long way from that magic 12 point mark.Copy linkCopiedHalf-time – Leicester 2-0 SouthamptonThe Foxes lead the battle of the bottom two at the King Power.Jamie Vardy and Jordan Ayew helped themselves to a couple of smart finishes but the first half was marred by a scare for referee David Webb.The official collided with Ayew, and was eventually replaced with a suspected concussion, leading to lengthy stoppage time.Copy linkCopiedFrom Phil Thomas at Goodison ParkWhere did that come from? Nearly half an hour of pretty much nothing, then 20 minutes of blood and thunder…and a couple of worldies.Beto’s headed opener, Liam Delap’s come-and-have-a-go to anyone in sight – and then two rub-your-eyes, Roberto Carlos-style swerving strikes from Dwight McNeil and Julio Enciso.Bring on the second half!Copy linkCopiedHalf-time – Everton 2-1 IpswichThe Toffees lead at the break, but not as convincingly as they would have liked.Goals from Beto and McNeil had them in total charge, but a stunner from Julio Enciso means this one has all to play for.Copy linkCopiedLeicester 2-0 Southampton44. Jordan Ayew rockets Leicester into a two-goal lead!The Ghanian appeared to have passed up his opportunity by chipping a 20-yard free-kick into the wall.But the forward readjusted himself quickly to take on the rebound, and promptly drilled it low into the bottom corner before the Southampton defence could react.Copy linkCopiedBelter!Copy linkCopiedEverton 2-0 Ipswich41. One of the goals of the season by Julio Enciso has Ipswich back in the contest!There appears no danger when the Paraguayan picks up the ball just inside the Everton half.But with a drop of the shoulder, he skips inside his marker and bursts forward.Thirty yards out, he takes aim with a strike that dips wickedly as it passes Jordan Pickford and crashes in off the bar.Copy linkCopiedWhat a goal!Copy linkCopiedLeicester 1-0 Southampton38. The game is back underway at the King Power, but has taken some time to pick up pace following that lengthy stoppage.Expect injury time aplenty at the end of the first half.Copy linkCopiedEverton 2-0 Ipswich35. On his 100th appearance for the club, Dwight McNeil doubles Everton’s lead!The winger is revelling back in the side after injury, and his strike here deceives Alex Palmer by swerving all over the shop.As a result, the Ipswich goalkeeper barely moves to keep out McNeil’s 25-yarder and it promptly thumps into the back of the net.Copy linkCopiedIt’s two!Copy linkCopied More

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      Ryan Garcia vs Rolly Romero LIVE RESULTS: King Ry DROPPED in shock defeat as Haney and Lopez win at Times Square

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      RYAN GARCIA was DROPPED by Rolando Romero as he suffered a shock defeat in Times Square.Garcia headlined the huge bill in his return from drug ban, but Rolly Romero caused a SHOCK upset to leave Garcia’s mooted rematch with Devin Haney hanging in the balance.Haney had earlier kept up his end of the bargain with a win over Jose Carlos Ramirez.Teofimo Lopez also retained his WBO super-lightweight title against Arnold Barboza Jr.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Rematch next?After Ryan Garcia’s defeat and a poor showing from Devin Haney, the appetite for a blockbuster rematch hit a couple of huge obstacles last night. The first match was one of the best of 2024 and was mired in controversy, but fight fans may not want to see these two share a ring together after such poor performances.However, contracts have already been signed for Volume II and Rolly Romero is one person who thinks Haney and Garcia should fight.He said: “I think Devin and Ryan should get their rematch and make a big one.”Asked about his own immediate future, Romero was less clear and added: “Man, I ain’t even thinking about what’s next.”Copy linkCopied’He didn’t open up’Rolando Romero pulled off a huge upset win on Friday night, sending Ryan Garcia to the canvas in the second round with a beautiful left hook.Rolly later said that the shot had Garcia scared the rest of the fight.”The one time he opened up I cracked him and he didn’t open up at all the rest of the fight,” he said.”They’re always going to underestimate me because I’m not one of these prospects that started boxing, that had a following, all that stuff.”They’re fresh out of the amateurs, they’ve promoted them, ‘Oh, this is the next big thing yada, yada, yada.'”At the end of it, I’ve done this three times in three different divisions.”Copy linkCopiedHaney and Ramirez stinkerDevin Haney and Jose Ramirez weren’t just bad on the eye, they stunk up the stat sheet as well.CompuBox has been recording fights for around 40 years and their stats show just how historically bad this fight was.The two fighters landed a combined 110 punches, the FOURTH FEWEST ever in a 12-round fight.Ramirez landed just 40 shots in the whole fight, with neither man finding their target more than eight times in a single round.Hall of Fame commentator Jim Lampley said: “A whole year has gone by, and I think this is a hangover from the Ryan Garcia fight.”He is flinching, he is still having nightmares about Garcia’s left hooks.”He later added: “If ever there was a fight capable of inducing a nap in Times Square, it would be this one.”For comparison, Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn landed a combined 582 punches in their war a week earlier – five times more.Copy linkCopied’The judges are asleep’The boxing world has not been kind to Devin Haney and Jose Ramirez – with their social media posts much more entertaining than the fight itself. Conor Benn said: “The judges won’t have a scorecard because [they’re] all asleep.”Dillian Whyte wrote: “This Haney fight is trash, I can’t believe I stayed up for this.”Jack Catterall added: “Tell you what, I get called boring but this makes me look like a prime Marvin Hagler.”And Dillon Danis: “Devin Haney really put the city that never sleeps to sleep.”Copy linkCopiedBad night for OscarIt was a tough night for Oscar de la Hoya.His fighters on the night – Ryan Garcia, Arnold Barboza Jr and Jose Ramirez – all lost as Golden Boy Promotions went 0-3.Barboza and Ramirez have since been dragged for their performances, with both fighters really struggling to perform.Copy linkCopiedConor Benn not impressedConor Benn flew out to New York City’s Times Square to watch the massive bill as a fight with Ryan Garcia had been an option for the Brit.Benn had previously expressed an interest in that fight.But Benn, who lost his war with Chris Eubank Jr last week, was left extremely unimpressed by what he saw.Asked by iFL TV about the performance, Benn responded: “I didn’t think it was great. “Very disappointing performance. “It was terrible.”Then asked if he still wanted to fight Garcia, Benn said: “No, I don’t think so.”Copy linkCopiedGarcia arrivalIn case you missed it – and way before a humbling defeat – Ryan Garcia arrived for the fight in a BATMOBILE.Garcia wasn’t driving the car – which was used by Michael Keaton in Tim Burton’s Batman (1989) and Batman Return’s (1992).Copy linkCopiedGarcia TearsVideo has emerged of Ryan Garcia with his head in hands and in TEARS in his car after his defeat to Rolly Romero. He later posted a message on social media that read: “First want to Thank God for everything in every situation.”I couldn’t do it tonight, I’m devastated and really sad that I fought the way I did. “I just didn’t have it tonight felt off I fought a lot to get here, as you know what I went thru last year was something a lot of people don’t come back from. So I can see a victory for me in that. “Congratulations to Rollies, Hell of a dude and great hearted person wish you nothing but the best. “I love you all and thank you for everything.”Copy linkCopiedRomero sends Garcia plans crashing to the canvasThis was billed as huge return to the ring for Ryan Garcia after his one-year ban.However, after the fight all people were talking about was the performance of Rolly Romero.The highlight of the fight was Romero landing a hook on Garcia and following up with another on his way down.Rolly fully deserved his victory in Times Square.Copy linkCopiedDevin not showing flareDespite his unanimous win on the card this evening against Jose Ramirez, he needs to up his game far more going forward.His tactic seemed to be to keep away from his opponent and his constant moving around the ring made him a difficult target.Haney showed his attacking intent too little and was not putting in the sort of performance from his previous fight with Garcia.Copy linkCopiedFormer pro getting love from crowdShannon Biggs was a an easy figure to spot in a crowd.Fans were looking for selfies with the former big-hitter.There are plenty of stars in attendence of this Times Square triple main event this evening.Copy linkCopiedLopez adding spice to cardThe best fight in Times Square this evening seemed to be Teofimo Lopez vs Arnold Barboza Jr.Both fighters got on the front foot whenever they could and were landing some good shots.Barboza had some power behind his blows but Lopez outboxed him through the fight and exploding into bursts of combinations.However, Lopez got an impressive win against a tricky opponent.Copy linkCopiedGarcia gent in defeatRyan Garcia had nothing but respect for Rolly Romero.Immediately after their fight he embraced his opponent.Speaking with DAZN afterwards it was evident that he had a lot of time for the performance of his opponent and that he had deserved victory in the ring.Copy linkCopiedVenue proves popular with fansUnder the bright lights of Times Square, the event as a whole seemed to be a success.While some of the bouts did not live up to the billing, there was no discontent from the fans.It was some backdrop to have to the boxing this evening.Copy linkCopiedRomero steals limelight in New YorkWhile everyone is wondering is Garcia will still have his rematch, based on what we have seen tonight, Romero versus Haney could be a better fight.With Haney and Garcia contractually committed to a rematch, it is unlikely we will get the fight we want.Garcia will have to have some training campt beforehand to get back to where he was when they last met.Copy linkCopiedGarcia left wanting in the ringSpeaking after the fight Ryan Garcia said that the year out of the ring has taken its toll on him and how Rolly Romero fought a good fight.It seems that the knockdown in the second round really affected him despite getting straight to his feet.It is back to the drawing board and while many people were looking forward to a Ryan Garcia vs Devin Haney rematch, they may not be so much now after the two boxers performances tonight.Copy linkCopiedWinner man of few wordsSpeaking with DAZN after his win, Romero answered questions on his win and next opponent:I just like to thank Jesus Christ, our lord and saviour, this is his win. How many knockdowns did we see in the fight? He is a warrior and he got back up. I haven’t thought about my next fight, I think Ryan and Devin should have their rematch.Rolly RomeroCopy linkCopiedRolly Romero wins by unanimous decisionCopy linkCopiedRyan Garcia vs Rolly Romero (Round 12)Romero leaps out of his corner, raring to go for the final round.Garcia just seems to have no drive to throw any punches still.You have to wonder whether being dropped in the second round has completely knocked the boxer out of him tonight.Romero keeps working his jab to the body and his slowing the pace of the fight really tilted it in his favour.Copy linkCopiedRyan Garcia vs Rolly Romero (Round 11)Romero is getting this job done in the latter rounds.His corner have obviously told him that he is probably up on the card.It has been a real flat performance from Garcia.He seems to wary of the power of Rolly’s counter punches.Copy linkCopiedRyan Garcia vs Rolly Romero (Round 10)Garcia really need to show something in these final three rounds.Nothing seems to be changing and he is still boxing on the counter.This is not what we expected to see from Garcia’s return, you think he should be letting his hands go more.Rolly lands a good hook to the body that his opponent definitely felt.Romero loses his footing trying a big roundhouse right hand but not able to land it.Copy linkCopiedRyan Garcia vs Rolly Romero (Round 9)When Romero gets on the front foot and drives at Garcia he seems to have the chance to get some real joy.On the back foot, Garcia does not seem to be able to weather the storm.Weirdly, Romero gets to a point and then stops letting his hands go.Another round Rolly has probably just edged there.Copy linkCopiedRyan Garcia vs Rolly Romero (Round 8)Garcia still seems to be fighting on the counter.This approach is not doing enough for him, many of the jabs are not landing.Romero comes forward with a little frenzy, trying to get some big hooks off but nothing connecting.Copy linkCopiedRyan Garcia vs Rolly Romero (Round 7)We are getting to the stage where Garcia needs to do something big.Many of the pudits do not feel has got back from that knockdown still.If this fight goes the distance, he needs to start trying to win more rounds.Copy linkCopiedRyan Garcia vs Rolly Romero (Round 6)Romero seems the more aggressive in that round.He is coming forward more and looking to land big punches.The AI judge has Garcia leading this on the scorecard.Who are we to question our soon-to-be new overlords after all.Copy linkCopied More

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      Ryan Garcia vs Rolly Romero LIVE RESULTS: Card updates as Devin Haney and Teofimo Lopez feature on Times Square bill

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      SOME of boxing’s biggest names feature on tonight’s blockbuster Times Square show.Ryan Garcia headlines the huge bill as King Ryan returns from his drug ban to face Rolly Romero in New York City.Devin Haney and Teofimo Lopez also feature on the huge card as they face Jose Ramirez and Arnold Barboza Jr. respectively.Should Garcia and Haney both have hands raised in Times Square, the plan is for the two to face off in a stunning rematch after their last bout was ruled a non-contest.Garcia vs Romero time: 2am BST/9pm ET (approx)TV/Stream: DAZNCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Teofimo Lopez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 8)Lopez is very agile and moving around the ring.He is trying to make himself a moving target for Barboza.Then he looks to surprise him with a quick attack.Having won so many of the rounds so far, the pressure is on Baraboza to take the fight to Lopez.Copy linkCopiedTeofimo Lopez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 7)Barboza is struggling to get inside to get his shots off.Lopez comes over the top with a right and catches his opponent.The eye Barboza seems to be starting to swell a little.Copy linkCopiedTeofimo Lopez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 6)Barboza got himself back into this fight more in this one.The pundits do not see many rounds having gone to Barboza so far but that might be the first one.He caught Lopez well with a counter right hand that has caused a cut to the eye of the champion.Copy linkCopiedTeofimo Lopez vs Arnold Barboza JrTwo rounds have passed in this encounter which has Lopez’s WBO super-lightweight belt on the line. An aggressive start from Teo, who is operating with a more purposeful combination work in a lot of traffic in the middle of the ring. Copy linkCopiedGarcia is in the building…or in the vicinity of it, as we are outdoors after all, where fighters need taxis to get to the main stage. The main event is scheduled for 1am BST (5pm PT, 6pm CT, 8pm ET). Copy linkCopiedReito Tsutsumi UD6 Levale WhittingtonFor a pair of fighters boasting a combined three-match experience log, the display from the two was far beyond in skill and canvas craft.22-year-old Tsutsumi probed Whittington with more purposeful intent, working his American opponent on several occasions with the true power to threaten a knockout, landing twice the punches. At the end of the fifth round, Whittington’s trainer described his performance as one who “looked like someone stole their puppy.”The Japanese talent who aims to go far in the sport stood out in his first outing, as the judges’ scores were 60-54, 60-54 and 58-56-108. We now enter our stretch of key three main fights, starting with Arnold Barboza Jr. and Teofimo Lopez. Copy linkCopiedView from the groundHere’s how the streets of the fight location are looking from our very own Israel Salas-Rodriguez, including Arnold Barboza Jr. arrival: Copy linkCopiedFight Night readingIncludes a pair of exclusives with Teofimo Lopez and Ryan Garcia: Copy linkCopiedBattle of the BadgesWe’ve seen our first winner of the night… Action was opened up by the understated Battle of the Badges clash as amateur pair, New York firefighter James Gennari and an NYPD officer, Joel Allen went at it in the three-round affair with the former coming out on top.Ring ambassador Reito Tsutsumi makes his pro debut next. Copy linkCopiedPacquiao RETURNSElsewhere, a living legend continues to make headlines as the 46-year-old aims to make a return to the ring since… 2021. Copy linkCopiedTimes Square card Here’s how our bill is looking for tonight; Garcia, who returns to action after serving a year-long drug suspension, will dust-up in the main event with Rolando Romero.Copy linkCopiedPart IEvening and welcome to the first day of three fantasticly set-up nights of boxing weekend ahead with a bit of everything for the sport’s connoisseur. The best two in the business, Canelo Álvarez and Naoya Inoue, will contend in sport’s growing hotbeds, Riyadh and Vegas, but we start in New York as Ryan Garcia and co headline a monumental bill. The card, like most of boxing’s big nights nowadays, has been organised by The Ring Magazine and its chief Saudi matchmaker Turki Alalshikh. Their aim has been simple from the offset: to transcend the sport past its traditional barriers, and will accomplish that as the outdoor conditions of Times Squares host the event. The streets of Manhattan will bear viewing for free as screens will be plastered around, with a select few being able to watch ringside. “This is going to be very difficult for every single fighter,” said promoter Oscar De La Hoya at Thursday’s weigh-in. “As you can imagine, there will be people everywhere, distractions everywhere.”Stay tuned for all the night’s latest.Copy linkCopied More

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      Athletic Bilbao vs Man Utd LIVE RESULT: United with one foot in Europa League final after thrashing ten-men Spaniards

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have firmly put one foot in the Europa League final after tearing Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of their thrilling semis.Casemiro nodded the visitors in front off the back of some Lamine Yamal-esque sily skills on the wing from Harry Maguire.Things then went from bad to worse for the hosts as Dani Vivian pulled Rasmus Hojlund down in the box which led to a red card and a coolly dispatched Bruno Fernandes penalty.And Fernandes then grabbed his second and United’s third of the night to give them a commanding lead to take back to Old Trafford next week.RESULT: Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Man UtdCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…United roll back the yearsAthletic Bilbao may claim that they will head to England next week with the belief they can turn this tie around, but history is not on their side.In fact, of the 133 teams to have won the first leg of a UEFA Cup/Europa League knockout stage tie by 3+ goals away from home, every single one has gone on to progress.Tonight’s 3-0 win at San Mames was also Manchester United’s biggest away win in a semi-final of a major European competition.And in scoring three first half goals, the Red Devils did so in a European knockout away game for the first time since a European Cup quarter-final at Benfica in 1966 when George Best (2) and John Connelly were on target for Matt Busby’s team.Copy linkCopiedAthletic will travel with confidenceThe Europa League semi-final between Manchester United and Athletic Bilbao is not yet over, according to one of the Spanish side’s defenders.Yeray Alvarez insists that the Basque outfit will travel to Old Trafford full of hope, and with the upmost confidence that they can stage a comeback.It’s been a hard blow, we came in with spirits high. But we still have 90 minutes left, we have confidence, and we need to go there to make the comeback and try to turn it around. The word ‘confidence’ is what we need to focus on, and go there with the greatest of hopes.Yeray AlvarezUefa.comCopy linkCopiedBruno delivers two more knockout blowsWith his two strikes in Bilbao this evening, Bruno Fernandes took his goal involvements total to an astonishing 35 in all competitions this season (19 goals and 16 assists).Only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (56) has been directly involved in more goals for a Premier League side in all competitions this campaign.Copy linkCopiedOn the United agendaDespite a significant first leg lead, Ruben Amorim has already indicated that he will manage his squad’s playing minutes ahead of next Thursday’s return tie with Athletic Bilbao.That’s likely to mean fringe players get game time against Brentford in the Premier League on Sunday, while it would not be a surprise to see the Portuguese coach rotate his first team in the remaining games before the Europa League final back in Bilbao in three weeks. Copy linkCopiedMaguire magic sparks memorable nightA historic night for Manchester United may be best remembered for the scintillating wingplay from Harry Maguire in the build-up to Casemiro’s opening goal.The defender left Mikel Jaureguizar for dead twice before delivering a fine cross that was eventually turned into, prompting social media users to coin him Maguire-dinho.Afterwards, Ruben Amorim laughed and said: “He’s a good winger. There are moments in our lives, and Harry has had difficult moments, but now everything he does is good for the team so he has to enjoy this.” Copy linkCopiedAmorim warns against complacencyManchester United boss Ruben Amorim insisted that his players still have work to do in next week’s second leg despite their impressive showing in Bilbao.And the Portuguese coach was also quick to point out that first leg in San Mames essentially turned on one moment – the sending off of Dani Vivian – and something similar could occur at Old Trafford if they took their eye of the ball.The result is really good, but we have to understand the result at the same time. We struggled a lot at the beginning and the sending off changed the game. Any game can change with one situation. We had an opportunity to score one more. This is not done and they can do the same at Old Trafford.Ruben AmorimTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedMaguire: We’ve one foot in the finalManchester United’s wing wizard Harry Maguire believes his side have done the hard work and have one foot in the Europa League final.The defender set up the opening goal with some marvellous play on the right flank, and afterwards spoke about a great performance and result.However, the 32-year-old was quick to state that they’ll need more of the same next week to see the job through.It was a clinical first half, and professional second half. It’s a great victory in the end but we’ve another big game next week. All the pressure is on us now, and everyone will expect us to get into the final. So next Thursday we need to make sure we prepare like we’ve done in this game, and if we do we give ourselves a great opportunity to make the final. It’s been a great night for us, we’ve one foot in the final but it’s still not done.Harry MaguireTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedMatch stats from San MamesCopy linkCopiedAn all English final awaits?The Premier League taking over Bilbao later this month looks a distinct possibility.Not only did United win convincingly here this evening, Spurs also registered a first leg advantage.The only downside for the Londoners was an 83rd-minute Bodo Glimt goal that offers the Norwegian some hope ahead of the second leg.Europa League semi-final, first leg results:Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Man UtdTottenham 3-1 Bodo GlimtCopy linkCopiedFull time – Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Man UtdA result beyond Manchester United dreams.The English giants would have been happy heading back to Old Trafford on level terms, but instead they’ll take a three-goal advantage into next week’s second leg – a leg attached to the one foot already in the final.A trio of goals – two from Bruno Fernandes including a penalty – in a barmy 15-minute first half spell has the Red Devils in charge.Barring a miracle or a disaster, United will be back in three weeks’ time for the Europa League showpiece.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd90+4. With the last kick of the game, Alvaro Djalo thumps a 30-yard free-kick straight at Onana.The United keeper is no stranger to a mistake, but does his job to preserve a clean sheet and his side’s dominant lead in the tie.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd90. Manchester United are four minutes of stoppage time away from an excellent night’s work.Gomez tries to get Athletic on the scoresheet ahead of the return but his header is high and wide of Onana’s goal.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd89. It’s keep ball for Ruben Amorim’s team now.That said, you do get the impression that Bruno Fernandes wants his hat-trick.The United captain is the only look still looking to push forward when he gets on the ball.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd87. United are seeing this one through to its conclusion.The visitors have had 70% of the ball tonight, and twice as many attempts and attacks as Athletic Bilbao.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd84. Ruben Amorim spoke about getting minutes in the legs of some his squad players, and that’s exactly what he’s doing.Kobbie Mainoo is on, and so too is Amad Diallo for his first appearance since February 7th.Alejandro Garnacho and Patrick Dorgu make way.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd82. Agirrezabala has made a couple of reflex stops to retain any slim hope that the La Liga outfit still had.Bilbao’s stand-in goalkeeper has denied both Garnacho and Fernandes in the last couple of minutes.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd80. With ten minutes remaining, it’s already looking like an all-English Europa League final – and that’s with another leg to go.Not only are United cruising 3-0 here, Spurs lead by the same scoreline at home to Bodo Glimt.Copy linkCopiedFrom Martin Blackburn in BilbaoAthletic coach Ernesto Valverde was the Barcelona coach when they threw away a 3-0 lead at Anfield six years ago.So he knows from personal experience that miracles can happen.But the task facing his team from here is even bigger than the one Liverpool managed that night. United could have added to their three goals but Casemiro sent a header against the post.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd77. Mason Mount is penalised for a trip on Maroan Sannadi.The substitute avoids a booking, but Bruno Fernandes is yellow carded, I think, for kicking the ball away.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd74. Luke Shaw is on for a slice of the action.It’s a straight swap with the wing-back replacing Noussair Mazraoui on the left.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd72. Athletic continue to look for Nico Williams as a first option when retrieving possession, but it hasn’t clicked tonight.In fact, we’ve seen very little of the Spanish international.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd69. Somebody just described Mason Mount as looking like an old American actor playing Mason Mount in a film adaptation, and I can’t stop thinking about it.It’s spot on.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd67. United are playing this well, and are continuing to find space when they choose to counter.Garnacho finds room in the box to strike at goal, only for Paredes get across to bravely block.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd65. Harry Maguire is still the focus of home displeasure after his involvement in that tangle with Maroan Sannadi.And with that in mind, Ruben Amorim moves to replace the centre-back.The returning Matthijs De Ligt is on in is place while Mason Mount takes over from Manuel Ugarte.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd63. Who said Casemiro’s legs have gone?The Brazilian has been excellent tonight, rolling back the years with his midfield dominance.In fact, he goes close to adding his second of night with a looping effort that clips off the bar.Copy linkCopied More

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      Djurgarden vs Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Conference League semi-final updates as Blues run rout in Sweden thanks to Jackson

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      CHELSEA take a comfortable advantage against Djurgarden back to Stamford Bridge following a rout in the first leg of their Conference League semi-final.The Blues controlled early exchanges before Jadon Sancho got on the end of a quick move to slide it past the hapless Jacob Rinne in goal with the aid of a deflection. Chelsea’s dominance would become more substantial as winger Noni Maaduke swept home a finish from yards out following a swift interchange. In the interval the West Londoners would make three changes, with Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson both getting a run-out. Jackson would display a fresh pair of wheels and impetus as he pick-pocketed a mistake from the hosts defensive unit to waltz the third in on the hour mark. Five minutes later, the Senegalese striker would grab his second and his side fourth to extend the rout. Nonetheless, the hosts commendable effort would result in a goal a few minutes later as Isak Alemayehu Mulugeta headed in from a few yards out. Full-time result: Djurgarden 1-4 ChelseaCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Enzo’s Reg verdictEnzo Maresca tried to keep a calm head over new starlet Reggie Walsh.The Chelsea chief said: “He is young, he looks very good.”But he needs to continue to work and learn and grow.”Walsh, 16, has been with the Blues for nine years.Copy linkCopiedFans raving over ReggieChelsea fans loved 16-year-old Reggie Walsh making his debut.The smiling midfielder exchanged touching moments with far more senior team-mates – as well as manager Enzo Maresca – as he came on for a cameo in Stockholm.Viewers enjoyed this heartwarming moment as Enzo Maresca brought on Reggie Walsh in the Conference League semi-finalCredit: ReutersOne supporter posted: “Maresca should be praised for bringing in youngsters and taking care of their professional career.”Others called Walsh “super good” and “great” with a fourth saying: “Good shift.”However, one fan lamented: “God, I feel old.”The Blues themselves heralded Walsh’s 88th-minute arrival as a sub by posting: “A proud moment for young Reggie Walsh who comes on for his Chelsea debut!”Copy linkCopiedTwo-goal hero Jackson hails team effortTwo-goal sub Nicolas Jackson says Chelsea should be chuffed with their smooth victory.Jackson told TNT Sports: “Very good performance. “The most important thing is that we won. It is one step forward and we hope to reach the final.”Nicolas Jackson hit Chelsea’s last two goals in a 4-1 winCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedEnzo celebrates ‘perfect night’Chelsea chief Enzo Maresca claims the 4-1 Conference League fist-leg win at Djurgarden couldn’t have gone better.Maresca told TNT Sports: “It was the perfect night – an important semi-final and it is a good result.”But he warned: “We need to be focused on the second leg.”The first 70 minutes was good but then in the last 20 minutes we dropped a little bit. “But we cannot drop, we cannot relax because otherwise it is complicated. “We have done a good job but now we need to finish the job at home.”Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea – one foot in finalSub Nicolas Jackson struck twice to put Chelsea one leg away from the Conference League final.And it should be a Stamford Bridge cruise through next week.CLICK BELOW FOR OUR FULL MATCH REPORTCopy linkCopiedRESULT: Djurgarden 1-4 ChelseaEfficiency all round for the Blues – with a well-deserved three-goal winning margin.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea90. There’s a rare flare-up as Chelsea react angrily to a foul and a niggle from Tobias Gulliksen – who is booked.We’ve two minutes of added timeCopy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea87. The Blues are finding regular gaps now.And Maresca brought on 16-year-old debutant Reggie Walsh – for fellow teenager George.And Walsh almost netted an excellent effort with his first touch.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea82. Djurgarden are doing all they can – creating sparks of pressure.But there’s a class gap.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea79. Stahl blazed high for Djurgarden.And neither he nor his team-mates could believe he missed.But at least the Swedes are fighting.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 ChelseaIt was actually quite embarrassing for Chelsea that Djurgarden scored a goal. They are terrible, writes ANDY DILLON.The ironic cheers from their fans in celebration told you just what a mismatch this is.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea77. Dewsbury-Hall slotted a low left-wing corner that was half-cleared.Palmer’s firm sidefoot from the edge of the box was then parried away.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 ChelseaPredictably the Blues are cruising now.And with Caicedo an impressive presence in the middle there looks little way back for the Swedes.74. But then Nguen wriggled through, only to be blocked out near the Blues’ six-yard box.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 ChelseaChelsea quickly regained the impetus.And they are passing the ball around in relaxed style.72. Sancho is squeezed out down the left after Palmer got in on the action down the middle. Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea68. Sub Isak Alemayehu nodded home at the back post – for a surprise and instant reply.That’s the 18-year-old’s first goal at senior level – with Gulliksen the supplier via a teasing left-wing cross.And what a reception that goal got!Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Djurgarden 1-4 ChelseaCopy linkCopiedGOAL! Djurgarden 0-4 ChelseaDjurgarden are showing plenty of spirit.But you just sense that Chelsea will have not just one or two, but a few opportunities on the counter-attack.64. Sure enough, Jackson dispatched a wonderful fourth goal – shifting the ball onto his left foot for a top-corner special just inside the box.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-3 ChelseaJackson was just chasing a hopeful long ball down the middle.But as he homed in on the box, the hosts’ keeper and defender dallied, then made the situation worse as they attempted to clear.Jackson squirmed the ball past them – and was left with a tap-in when the ball broke towards goal.Technically Palmer was the goal provider – but Djurgarden had most of the responsibility.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Djurgarden 0-3 Chelsea59. Jackson is gifted Chelsea’s third from an incredible mix-up between keeper and defender.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 Chelsea57. The pace has dipped a bit now.But Finndell had a shot blocked away to prevent any hint of danger.Djurgarden are straight back on the attack, though. Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 ChelseaSo far the Blues look weaker after bringing on four first-choice stars at the break.But that’s a lot to do with Djurgarden’s raised tempo.And the Swedes might have to profit from this spell pretty quickly – as Chelsea will surely settle again soon. Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 Chelsea54. Palmer’s first intervention – but he’s blocked out in the box with the minimum of fuss.But at least it’s some sort of response from Chelsea.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 ChelseaIt’s such a different game now.Djurgarden have decided urgency and pressing are the only tactics.52. Nguen was denied to spark more pressureForgensen then produced a top-quality save.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 Chelsea50. Finn margins!Djurgarden’s corner was eventually taken.And the ensuing scramble on the edge of the box led to Finndell lashing a low right-footer wide.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 Chelsea48. The Swedes have had plenty of possession early in the second period.And Chelsea sub Chalobah has just conceded a corner.Copy linkCopied More

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      Tottenham vs Bodo/Glimt LIVE SCORE: Europa League semi-final updates as last-8 hero Saltnes narrows Lillywhites lead

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      TOTTENHAM hold comfortable lead against Bodo/Glimt despite having lead narrowed in the closing stages in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final. The Norwegian champions entered the contest with a depleted squad as several key players are missing the trip due to suspension or injury.Spurs, who are unbeaten in their last 14 Europa League matches at home, were headed into the lead as fellow winger Richarlison flicked the ball into Brennan Johnson path to tuck away inside the opening 40 seconds. Following a period of superiority, Pedro Porro’s looping ball would bypass the Glimt backline and locate James Maddison, who would take it down and finish with the utmost composure. Striker Dominic Solanke would add a third after the referee adjudged Cristian Romero to be clipped by the ankle in a knee-high challenge for the ball. Ulrik Saltnes, who scored the brace to aid Bodo’s progression to this stage, showed a clean set of feet before bending his strike with aid of a deflection to narrow Spurs’ lead. Full-time result: Spurs 3-1 Bodo/GlimtCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Spurs dominate huge occasionThe atmosphere outside the stadium hours before kick-off really showed how much this meant to the Tottenham fans.A semi-final in Europe does not come along every day after all.Tottenham played the perfect game as they dominated from start to finish but the one blemish on their resume would be conceding a goal during one of their best periods of the match.Copy linkCopiedNorway Spurs can let this goTottenham have themselves in a great position heading into the second-leg with a two-goal lead.They will be the favourites to progress to the final to meet the winners of Man Utd and Athletic Club.The competition offers Postecoglou’s side a chance to secure Champions League football next season, something their league position is nowhere near being able to offer.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedBoss hoping niggles not an issueFor most Tottenham fans, it would have been a real concern seeing both James Maddison and Dominic Solanke come off injured.They need both of these attacking threats for the trip to Norway if they hope on progressing to the final.After the match, Ange Postecoglou told TNT Sports that these were just niggles and he was being safe by deciding to rotate his squad.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAussie having reason to smileIt has been a tough campaign for Ange Postecoglou, often having to field very awkward questions with the media.The manager always said that he wins trophies in his second season with clubs and this may be no different in North London.Seeing his team get into a three-goal lead, the manager seemed very pleased with their showing in this first-leg of the Europa League semi-final.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedSouth American puts in shift for LillywhitesRodrigo Bentancur covered a lot of ground for Tottenham tonight.Often doing the work that goes unnoticed, the Uruguayan was integral to the win in the capital.It will smart having seen the visitors’ goal deflect off him and beat his own keeper but he will no doubt use that as motivation in his performance in Norway next week.Copy linkCopiedTottenham show focus to tacticsAfter the game the players spoke about how they had identified that this Bodo/Glimt side tend to grow into games and they planned to get straight at them.They played out their manager’s tactics perfectly as they scored with less than a minute on the clock.That complete deflated the visitors and led to Spurs controlling the game but conceding the late consolation goal will not have been part of the script they were given.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAnge to stay focussed on finalThe goal from Bodo/Glimt will have been celebrated in East London this evening.Tottenham travel to struggling West Ham on the weekend and the fact that tie now hangs in the balance, is likely to affect team selections.Postecoglou will not risk any of his key players, with nothing to play for in the Premier League other than pride.Copy linkCopiedBig man gets his goal in semiSpeaking with TNT Sports, goalscorer Dominic Solanke gave his view on his team’s performance:Yeh we are pleased with the performance, it is nice to have a two-goal lead. We know the tie is not done and it will be a tough game over there. I think it was not ideal to concede late on, we wanted to take the clean sheet and three goal lead over there. It doesn’t change it much we know we need to go there and score. Dominic SolankeTottenhamCopy linkCopiedBrits looking for epic meetingWith two Premier League sides heading into the Europa League semi-finals, most neutrals would love to see them meet in Spain in the final.While Tottenham take a two-goal lead to Norway, Man Utd won 3-0 in Spain against Athetic Club.It is all set up for an all-English final if everything goes according to plan in the second-legs next week.Copy linkCopiedGaffer has his say on winSpeaking with TNT Sports, Postecoglou shared his thoughts:Yeh look I thought in terms of performance, I could not ask anymore from the lads. We were dominant, I don’t think the scoreline reflects that. All you can ask from a first leg is that you get yourselves into a good position and I think we have done that. It just the way of our season but nothing too serious with the injuries. We decided to take them off as more of safety measure. Ange PostecoglouTottenhamCopy linkCopiedA game of fine margins Tottenham almost put in the perfect display this evening.Scoring after only 40 seconds, they never looked back and seemed in total control of this game.However, Bodo/Glimt’s first shot on target in the match took a big deflection off Bentancur to take it past Vicario in the Spurs’ goal.That now means this is a completely different tie when Postecoglou’s side head to Norway next week.Credit: ReutersCredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedScorer gives thoughts on gameSpeaking with TNT Sports after the game, Johnson spoke about his side’s performance:Yeh we are pleased, I think before the game if you had offered us a two-goal cushion we would have taken it. Disappointed to concede towards the end but this is how it goes. We knew we had to be onto them straight away and getting the early goal we did just that. Brennan JohnsonTottenhamCopy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 3-1 Bodo-GlimtThat deflected goal for the visitors has completely changed the mood in North London.With Bodo/Glimt having such a good home record, this one really hangs in the balance.Spurs still have a lot of work to do in Norway next week.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King in North LondonSuddenly – and unnecessarily – next week looks interesting. Bodo fans are bouncing  and singing. Spurs  paid the price for taking the foot off the gas and not going in for the kill. The visitors’ first bit of decent play in and around the Tottenham box brought a goal for stand-in captain Ulrik Saltnes. Suspended skipper Patrick Berg and midfield partner Hakon Evjen will be back for the return, in which the Norwegians now have a glimmer of hope. It would be criminal if Spurs found a way not to reach the final. Yet Bodo have a formidable home record on their artificial pitch. Dejan Kulusevski missed a later chance and what should have been an unequivocally positive night for Tottenham had the shine taken off it.Copy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 3-1 Bodo-GlimtThe referee brings this first-leg to a close.A comfortable win for Spurs in front of their own fans.That consolation goal gives the visitors hope in this tie however.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt90+4. Kulusevski forces a late corner for Spurs.Porro whips it in but Gundersen is first to it once again.He has dominated the aerial duels in this second-half.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt90+2. It all seems a little nervy in the Tottenham Hotspurs Stadium.Losing Maddison and Solanke has made a big difference the spine of this team. Bodo/Glimt are growing in confidence here.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt90. A lot of Tottenham fans are making their way to the exits.It always make you wonder with these types of fans, top-flight football is known for its dramatic finishes.They are about to miss five added minutes in the capital.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt88. Porro looks to whip a cross in from out wide but it takes a deflection behind for a corner.What Totenham would give for another goal now.On this occasion Gundersen heads clear for the visitors.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt86. The Norwegians have a great record at home in this competition this season, having won all their games by two goals or more.As a result of that goal from Saltnes, this tie is back in the balance.Stick or twist time for Bodo/Glimt now.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt84. Bodo/Glimt score from their first shot on target.The effort from Saltnes took a big deflection off Bentancur to take it up over Vicario.If they could get another goal this would be seen as a decent result away from home.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Ulrik Saltnes (Bodo/Glimt)Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-0 Bodo-Glimt82. The Norwegians are looking a little punch-drunk here.In all their games in the competition so far, they have always been competitive.That has not been the case so far in North London.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-0 Bodo-Glimt80. What a night this could be in the Europa League semi-finals.Both English teams three-nil, up from their first-legs.Kulusevski has some time and space in the box but he shoots early and it deflects behind for a corner.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedTottenham 3-0 Bodo-Glimt78. Tottenham will be worried about the injuries to Solanke and Maddison.With Bergvall sat on the sidelines with a boot on, they do not need any more concerns on that front.Udogie gets down the left and tries to shoot from an impossible angle, much to the dismay of Johnson in the middle.Copy linkCopied More